Grow young plants of Pontederia cordata in spring in boggy conditions by the pond, preferably in full sun. Tropical-looking heart-shaped leaves unfurl followed by tall stems of purple flowers in summer and autumn.

The leaves quickly establish providing excellent shelter for aquatic wildlife like frogs and toads and the pretty flower stems act as a magnet to passing bees.

What’s more it’s fully hardy, so will come back each year stronger and more-established.